Attorney's Office | City of Grand Rapids, MI

City of Grand Rapids

Attorney's Office

The City Attorney's Office performs legal services for the City and provides legal counsel to every aspect of City government.

As required by the City Charter, the office represents the City in:

Preparation and review of contracts and other legal documents
Provides advice and opinions to the Mayor, City Commission, and all City agencies
Requests by the Mayor or City Commissioners, the office drafts ordinances, and resolutions to present to the Commission
Prosecution of persons accused of violating City ordinances (parking and traffic tickets, housing violations, criminal enforcement misdemeanors)
Representation of the City and City officials in lawsuits

The City Attorney's Office does not provide legal advice to members of the public.

Office Divisions

Municipal Affairs Division - provides legal advice and counsel to the Mayor, City Commissioners, City Manager and all departments, Boards and Commissions of the City. 616-456-3181

Civil Litigation Division - defends the City, its officers and employees in State and Federal lawsuits and administrative proceedings. 616-456-3181

Freedom of Information Act Coordinator -manages receipt and response to all Freedom of Information Act requests. 616-456-3181

Enforcement Division - prosecutes City Ordinance violations in Grand Rapids District and Kent County Juvenile Courts and provide training and consultation to City Departments which enforce ordinances. 616-456-3388